Julie E. Moritz University of California, San Diego San Diego “Cystic fibrosis has taught me to value and respect others in a way I could never imagine, has made me a better person, and has given me the strength to never give up no matter how hopeless it may seem.” Shannon O’Donnell Seton Hall University Toms River, N.J. “I have never let CF stand in the way of the goals I want to achieve and I will not let it stand in the way of my future.  I live with CF, but I do not let it live for me."        Caprice M. Padilla University of Texas, El Paso El Paso, Texas “CF does not define me; it is merely something I have.  It’s been my motivation to be the strongest person possible: mentally, physically and spiritually." Toni D. Pauline Carthage College Fort Atkinson, Wis. “CF has taught me to live life to the fullest, to never look back, treasure each day and tell your loved ones how much they truly mean.”          Samantha Pelican University of Denver Denver “Living with CF is never easy or simple.  However, learning to embrace the gift of empathy that comes with it helps to lighten the burden and make a positive difference in the lives of others." Kaly Prather Southwest Missouri State University Lee’s Summit, Mo. “Living with CF has made me realize that, at the end of the day, I want to be able to say I did something, not just I wish I would have.”       Alexander B. Prator California State University, Chico Paradise, Calif.  “CF is something that will always be there.  It’s a responsibility I’ve dealt with all of my life.  But it has never stopped me from doing anything I want to do.” Megan G. Scott Brigham Young University West Jordan, Utah “Living with CF has taught me it’s not perfection but balance that allows us to achieve our goals."     Nicholas A. Scribani University of Pittsburgh Fairport, N.Y. “The obstacle of cystic fibrosis is not an oppressor; instead it allows us to draw courage and perseverance from deep within ourselves.” Jessica Serdinsky Colorado State University Evergreen, Colo. “Life with CF can be difficult at times, but if I continue to maintain my health as I always have, I will be able to achieve all of my goals.”       Melissa Skinner University of Missouri–Rolla Springfield, Mo. “My passion to beat CF has helped me not only to set lofty, yet attainable goals, but also to encourage my friends and family to do the same.” Chelsea A. Terrell Louisiana State University Slidell, La. “Cystic fibrosis gives me the opportunity to look at life in a unique light and draws me to make the most of my abilities and passions.”        Molly A. Walters Pacifica Graduate Institute Oshkosh, Wis. “Living with CF has been a challenge that has shaped me into a better person.  I look at things from many angles to see the whole picture.” Max Winkler University of Colorado at Boulder Boulder, Colo                                                                                                                                                  “Living with CF is an achievement in and of itself that I take pride in.”    Jennifer Wright University of Maryland, College Park Burtonsville, Md. “Life goes on with or without CF, and those of us who have CF can’t let it get in the way of living happy, full lives.”